Haitian megastar Wyclef Jean has broken his silence to denounce the Trump administration’s treatment of immigrants.
The hip-hop icon and member of The Fugees spoke out this week about President Donald Trump’s controversial immigration policies, stating that he is ready to engage in a direct dialogue with Trump regarding the issue of mass deportations.
Speaking at the Music Will Benefit concert held in New York City on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, Wyclef Jean — a proud Haitian immigrant himself — emphasized the importance of artists and public figures participating actively in political discussions. “I’m looking at America as a whole. A country of immigrants,” he said in an exclusive interview with The Mirror US.
The artist believes that meaningful change can only happen when those affected take part in the conversation. “In order for us to have a conversation, we have to be in the conversation. I look forward to going to the White House and having a conversation with Donald Trump, with Marco Rubio, with Elon Musk, because we have to be part of the conversation,” Wyclef told The Mirror US.
He went on to point out that while politicians often make statements, it is the citizens who bear the consequences. “Every politician says things… but the citizens will always be here,” he added, concluding: “It’s important to be part of the conversation — to agree to disagree.”
During the event, Wyclef also reflected on his Haitian heritage and pushed back against the negative stereotypes often portrayed in conservative media about immigrants. “I was born in Haiti, I came here, I respected all the rules, and I’ve never been to jail. All I want to say is immigrants are beautiful people,” he declared with pride.
He also issued a call for more support for immigrant families and for peace in Haiti. “Our parents bring us here, and they need to work with us,” he said. “We need peace in Haiti — in the whole country, not just one part.”
Wyclef’s remarks come amid growing criticism of the Trump administration’s recent immigration decisions. In early March, The Mirror US reported that the White House was considering revoking Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nearly 240,000 Ukrainians who had taken refuge in the U.S. following Russia’s invasion. The administration also attempted a similar measure for Venezuelans, which was blocked by a federal judge. Additionally, it shortened TPS for Haitians to six months and terminated the program entirely for Afghans and Cameroonians.
